P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Wolff and Marko ‘much closer now’ as ‘anything is possible’ move mooted
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff and Red Bull motorsport advisor Helmut Marko have reconciled their tensions, citing shared values as the common ground. The relationship between the two Austrians turned sour during the intense 2021 F1 title battle between Mercedes and Red Bull drivers Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. Despite Mercedes’ overall championship victory, Verstappen’s triumph strained Wolff and Marko’s friendship, which has since been rekindled. Wolff openly expressed his interest in having Verstappen join Mercedes, even suggesting Marko could play a significant role akin to their “old mascot” Niki Lauda. Marko appreciates the accolade but remains focused on winning the world title with Red Bull.
Acknowledging the reduced animosity between them, Marko stated that the speculated “blood brothers” status was an exaggeration. There is a possibility of Verstappen following Marko should he leave Red Bull based on contractual clauses. While maintaining constant communication with Verstappen, Marko did not deny discussing alternative career paths with him. On the other hand, Wolff highlighted the closer relationship he now shares with Marko, emphasizing their common values amid past controversies within the F1 community. Not ruling out the idea of Verstappen and Marko joining Mercedes in the future, Wolff hinted at the potential for such a move in the 2026 F1 season.
